As the 2024 U.S. Open Cup approaches, the involvement of Major League Soccer (MLS) teams in the prestigious tournament remains uncertain. Recent talks between MLS and the United States Soccer Federation have raised questions about the extent of MLS's participation. Initially, MLS sought to replace its first teams with developmental sides from third-division MLS Next Pro, citing concerns about fixture congestion and the tournament's commercial viability.

The discussions took a new turn when, following the rejection of MLS's proposal, the European Court of Justice ruled in favor of the Super League, sparking hopes among some MLS owners of prioritizing other competitions over the U.S. Open Cup. The ruling challenged the control that governing bodies, including national federations, have over club competitions.

The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, dating back to 1914, is central to American soccer, offering a platform for about 100 professional and amateur teams to compete in a single-elimination format. The tournament's rich history includes notable upsets, with lower-league teams occasionally defeating MLS sides. Despite its significance to lower-division clubs, MLS's stance on the U.S. Open Cup has been met with mixed reactions, with a possible reduced MLS team participation in the 2024 edition looming.

The forthcoming 2024 U.S. Open Cup is set to kick off on March 19, with 32 amateur qualifiers participating in the first round. While the final format is yet to be announced, with only 68 confirmed participants so far, including teams from various divisions, including the second-division USL Championship and the third-division USL League One. MLS teams, numbering 26, are a significant portion of the participating clubs, with uncertainties remaining about the involvement of MLS Next Pro teams and clubs from the National Independent Soccer Association.

As discussions continue and decisions are awaited, the future of MLS participation in the 2024 U.S. Open Cup hangs in the balance, leaving fans and stakeholders eagerly anticipating developments in the coming weeks.